Puzzles

Puzzles for children — from the first big wooden puzzles to smaller picture puzzles and 3D puzzles. A children's puzzle teaches patience and the idea that something eventually gets finished. A two-year-old is fine with two to six large pieces, a three-year-old with about 12 to 24, and from age four a child can manage 30 to 50 pieces. A puzzle that's too hard causes frustration, one that's too easy causes boredom. Wooden puzzle pieces are thicker and easier for a child to grip, and they don't break, while cardboard puzzles are cheaper and come in more variety. If a child gets stuck, give a hint, but don't put the piece in place yourself.